Spring Orchid

(Cymbidium goeringii)

Spring Orchid (Cymbidium goeringii)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Cymbidium goeringii, commonly known as the Spring Orchid or Noble Orchid, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the understory of temperate broadleaf forests in East Asia, including Japan, China, Taiwan, and South Korea. It typically grows to a height of 12-24 inches (30-60 cm). This orchid has a sympodial growth habit with pseudobulbs and narrow, grass-like leaves. The flowers, which bloom in early spring, range in color from white to greenish-yellow with a distinctive, often spotted lip. They are modest in size but highly valued for their delicate beauty and fragrance.

The Noble Orchid is celebrated for its elegant, sweetly scented flowers and is a popular choice for cool greenhouse cultivation and as a potted plant in temperate regions. It thrives in dappled shade, mimicking its natural forest floor habitat, and requires well-drained, humus-rich soil with consistent moisture. While it is relatively easy to maintain, it does not tolerate high heat or direct sunlight well. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot. In cultivation, it is important to provide a period of cooler temperatures in the fall to initiate flowering. The plant has cultural significance in East Asia and has been featured in traditional art and symbolism, including its appearance in the Imperial Seal of Manchukuo.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow, Moderate
  • Flower Color: Brown, Green, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Border Plant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant

Natural Habitat

Temperate broadleaf forests in East Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Spring Orchid, Chinese Spring Orchid, Shun-Ran, Hardy Orchid

Scientific Names: , Cymbidium goeringii, Cymbidium formosanum subsp. albiflorum, Cymbidium forrestii, Cymbidium goeringii subsp. albiflorum, Cymbidium goeringii subsp. formosanum, Cymbidium goeringii subsp. mackinnonii, Cymbidium goeringii var. goeringii, Cymbidium goeringii var. mackinnonii, Cymbidium mackinnonii

GBIF Accepted Name: